Tuesday, 31 January 2017

Topical Issue Debate

Tenant Purchase Scheme Eligibility

In line with the commitment given in the Rebuilding Ireland: An Action Plan for Housing and Homelessness, a review of all aspects of the first 12 months of operation of the scheme is being undertaken by the Minister's Department in close consultation with local authorities. The Minister will consider the need for any change in the terms and conditions of the scheme based on the evidence presented by the review, which he expects to be completed by the end of the first quarter. As part of the review process, the Department is engaged in a public consultation process which will inform the outcome of the review. The Minister encourages all those interested in the scheme to make a contribution to the process. Full details of how this can be done are on the Department's website.

I have noted the details of the resident to whom the Deputy referred. It was very unfair that she received a letter from Cork County Council indicating she was eligible for the tenant purchase scheme before being informed the council had made a mistake. I understand the family's frustration and disappointment and concur with the Deputy's sentiments in that regard.